I’m not going to claim to know what Wambaugh was thinking, but the marble reminded me of something I’d read long ago about voting in Ancient Greece with some sort of black and white marbles. That led me to this:
Basically, it outlines a complex randomized system of black and white stones over who was going to be called for jury duty. Black meant you were out, white meant you were in.
But I also recall (and can’t find) that there was something about banishment and black marbles, but I think I’m mixing that up with something else.
This is a great tour through Wambaugh adaptations. Will look for Black Marble!
Ok I have to see this!
I’m not going to claim to know what Wambaugh was thinking, but the marble reminded me of something I’d read long ago about voting in Ancient Greece with some sort of black and white marbles. That led me to this:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kleroterion
Basically, it outlines a complex randomized system of black and white stones over who was going to be called for jury duty. Black meant you were out, white meant you were in.
But I also recall (and can’t find) that there was something about banishment and black marbles, but I think I’m mixing that up with something else.
You know what, I think you might be onto something there. It's just a weirdly specific thing that it's difficult to believe Wambaugh came up with it.